Glen Ellyn Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Glen Ellyn and nearby
The holiday season around Glen Ellyn transforms the western suburbs into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and carols filling the air. From grand tree lighting ceremonies in neighboring towns to intimate holiday markets and theatrical performances, there are countless ways to embrace the spirit of Christmas. You’ll find everything from dazzling drive-thru light displays to charming house walks showcasing local holiday décor.
This year, experience the magic of Mariah Carey's Christmas Time or wander through the ChristkindlMarket in Aurora. For those seeking a more local feel, Glen Ellyn itself hosts a Holiday Craft Show and a Holiday Walk & Tree Lighting, offering a perfect blend of community spirit and seasonal cheer.
Browse Christmas Near Glen Ellyn by Category
Christmas Markets
Holiday market with characters, lights, and Nutcracker dancers
Christmas Lights
Illuminated gardens and a ½-mile light show route.
Christmas Shows
Largest Nutcracker production in North America.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Magical Polar Express train ride to the North Pole
Editor's Picks
-
Glen Ellyn Holiday Walk & Tree Lighting
Letters to Santa mailbox with guaranteed reply
-
A Holiday Happening Craft & Art Fair
Top 20 craft show with over 100 Midwest artisans.
-
Holiday Homecoming Electric Christmas Parade
· St. Charles
Spectacular illuminated electric Christmas parade
-
Holiday Homecoming Lighting of the Lights Ceremony
· St. Charles
Community lighting ceremony and electric Christmas parade.
-
Candy Cane Lane Holiday Market
· Lombard
Holiday market with characters, lights, and Nutcracker dancers
-
Polar Express Train Ride
· Roselle
Magical Polar Express train ride to the North Pole
Glen Ellyn Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Glen Ellyn Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Glen Ellyn?
The Holiday Walk & Tree Lighting, the Holiday Happening at College of DuPage, and the annual Jingle Jam music festival are among the most popular annual Christmas events in Glen Ellyn.
What holiday traditions are unique to Glen Ellyn?
Glen Ellyn is known for its Letters to Santa mailbox, festive downtown window displays, and the tradition of the Holiday Happening craft fair, which has been a local favorite for decades.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Glen Ellyn?
The downtown area and historic neighborhoods around Main Street are especially festive, with many homes and businesses participating in the holiday light displays each year.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Glen Ellyn?
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at the Holiday Happening at College of DuPage, downtown Glen Ellyn during the holiday walk, and at special events hosted by the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Glen Ellyn?
Free activities include viewing downtown holiday lights, attending the tree lighting, visiting the Letters to Santa mailbox, and enjoying the Holiday Happening craft fair and Jingle Jam music festival.
What are good picks for families with kids in Glen Ellyn?
Families enjoy the tree lighting, Letters to Santa mailbox, photos with Santa at the Lake Ellyn Boathouse, and the Jingle Jam music festival, all of which are welcoming and fun for children.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Carowinds WinterFest
📍 Charlotte , NC , United States
Premier holiday festival with rides, shows, and Santa.
View Event Details →